The best electric wheelchair is the one that fits your body, your home and the way you travel. Start with where you'll use it most, then think about transport, comfort and controls.
Indoors, outdoors or both?
Electric wheelchairs, often called powerchairs, are steered with a joystick rather than a tiller. That makes them easier than a scooter in kitchens, hallways and shops. For mostly indoor use, a tight turning circle matters most. For pavements and paths, look for bigger wheels, suspension and more range.
Which drive type?
| Drive | Good at |
|---|---|
| Rear-wheel drive | Stable and quick in a straight line, handles uneven ground. The most common outdoor choice. |
| Mid-wheel drive | Turns on the spot. Best for small rooms and tight corners. |
| Front-wheel drive | Climbs kerbs and obstacles well, and gets close to tables and worktops. |
Folding or standard?
Folding electric wheelchairs fold in seconds to go in a car boot. Lightweight and carbon frames can weigh under 25kg with the battery out. A standard chair gives more comfort, suspension and seating options, but usually needs a vehicle with a ramp or hoist.
Travelling in a vehicle
To stay seated in your chair in a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, you need a crash-tested chair with proper tie-down points. Not every chair is crash-tested, so ask us before you buy. If you plan to fly, ask about battery rules too, as many folding chairs are airline-approved.
Seating and controls
- Seat: check seat width and depth, and backrest height, if you'll sit for long periods.
- Armrests: armrests that lift out of the way make transfers easier.
- Joystick: most can be fitted on either side.
- Attendant control: some chairs can be set up so a carer drives from behind.
Weight limit and range
Check the maximum user weight. Heavy-duty chairs take users up to around 180kg. Range runs from about 10 miles on a lightweight folding chair to 20 miles or more on a larger outdoor chair.
What do they cost?
Folding chairs on our website start from around £1,400. For full prices by type, see How much does an electric wheelchair cost?
Try one first
We'll bring chairs to you with a free home assessment, within 75 miles of our Stratford-upon-Avon showroom, so you can try them in your own rooms, doorways and car. When you buy, our engineer delivers the chair, sets it up fully and shows you how to use it, a service worth £150.
Please call before visiting the showroom so we can have suitable chairs ready. Call 01789 339 738. Open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4:30pm, Saturday 9:30am to 1pm.
Browse our electric wheelchairs
Frequently asked questions
Which brands do you supply?
Drive, Pride, Quantum, Sunrise Medical (Quickie), Invacare, Electric Mobility (Rascal), Karma, Motion Healthcare and Monarch.
Can I get one on Motability?
Yes, many electric wheelchairs are on the Motability Scheme. See this quarter's Motability prices or call us.
Scooter or electric wheelchair?
See How do I choose a mobility scooter? or call us to talk it through.
Can my family deal with you for me?
Yes, we're happy to talk to a family member or carer you've named.
